Endometriosis and work

Occupational health support for the one in 10 women with endometriosis

Summary:

Endometriosis affects around one in 10 women and can create major challenges at work. Faye Farthing explains how employers and OH professionals can provide support for those with the condition and describes a national initiative to promote endometriosis-friendly workplaces.

One in 10 women from puberty to menopause have endometriosis, although the impact may be felt for life. That’s over 1.5 million people in the UK, predominately of working age. With an average time from symptoms to diagnosis of 7.5 years and a cost of £8.2 billion a year to the UK economy in terms of lost work, treatment and healthcare costs, the potential impact on individuals, employers and society is clear.

 

Faye Farthing is communications and campaigns manager for the charity Endometriosis UK.

 

Author: Farthing F

Tags condition management health work and wellbeing pregnancy, menopause and reproductive health

Occupational Health at Work February/March 2020 (vol. 16/5) pp17-19

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